If music could be plated, it would taste like Mango Sticky Rice – a sweet symphony that dances on your tongue, serenading your senses with its harmonious blend of simple yet profound flavors. A dish steeped in tradition, Mango Sticky Rice is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural emblem, a testament to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.
The story of Mango Sticky Rice begins in the verdant fields of Thailand, where glutinous rice is cultivated. This special variety of rice, known as ‘Khao Neow’, forms the heart of this dish. Steamed to perfection, it transforms into a subtly sweet, nutty base that cradles the star of the dish – the mango.
And oh, what a mango it is! Thailand’s pride and joy, the ‘Nam Dok Mai’ mango is the perfect companion to the sticky rice. Its vibrant yellow flesh is tantalizingly sweet, with a slight tang that cuts through the richness of the dish, making you reach for another spoonful even before you finish the first.
The crowning glory of this culinary masterpiece is the coconut sauce. Made from freshly squeezed coconut milk simmered with palm sugar, it blankets the sticky rice and mango with a creamy, velvety layer that ties all the flavors together into a delicious symphony.
Now, let’s dive into the process of creating this Thai classic at home.
Ingredients:
1 cup Thai glutinous rice
2 ripe Nam Dok Mai mangoes
2 cups coconut milk
1/2 cup palm sugar
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Soak the glutinous rice in water overnight. Drain and steam for about 20 minutes or until the rice becomes translucent.
While the rice is steaming, prepare the coconut sauce. In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, palm sugar, and a pinch of salt. Simmer over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Once the rice is cooked, mix in half of the coconut sauce and let it absorb for about 15 minutes. This will make the rice delightfully sticky and imbue it with a lovely coconut flavor.
Peel and slice the mangoes. Arrange them on a plate along with a mound of the sticky rice.
Drizzle the remaining coconut sauce over the mango and rice just before serving.
A tip to elevate your Mango Sticky Rice: try garnishing it with some toasted sesame seeds or fried mung beans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the rice and mango.
And there you have it – your very own bowl of Mango Sticky Rice! As you take a bite, close your eyes and let the flavors transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand, where this dish is a testament to the country’s love for food that is as vibrant and diverse as its people. Enjoy this sweet symphony, one spoonful at a time!
What’s your favorite Thai food?